AI-generated images raise consent concerns in the UK

Images generated by AI are fuelling political and social concern in the UK, prompting calls for tougher laws to curb deepfake abuse and strengthen online platform accountability.

Online sexualised deepfakes targeting women are accelerating demands for stronger regulation, clearer consent protections and faster action from social media companies.

UK lawmaker Jess Asato said an AI-altered image depicting her in a bikini circulated online. The incident follows wider reports of sexualised deepfake abuse targeting women on social media.

Platforms hosted thousands of comments, including further manipulated images, heightening distress. Victims describe the content as realistic, dehumanising and violating personal consent.

Government ministers of the UK pledged to ban nudification tools and criminalise non-consensual intimate images. Technology firms face pressure to remove content, suspend accounts, and follow Ofcom guidance to maintain a safe online environment.

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